The morning was somewhat quiet and peaceful, the air carrying the faint scent of dew. Aldric woke feeling more relaxed than he had in days. The aches and exhaustion that had weighed him down were gone, replaced by a rare sense of lightness.

  After lacing up his boots, he decided on a run to clear his head as he had many things to do .

  As he run along the road, the light of the early morning sun began to filter through the trees. His thoughts wandered, yet there was an unusual clarity today, a focus he hadn’t expected. It wasn’t just the run; something felt different, lighter in the air.

  He spotted Amara ahead, standing near a tree with Mira by her side. The child’s innocent laughter floated through the air as she chased after a butterfly, her small hands reaching out with pure joy. her dark hair, now clean and untangled, caught the sunlight, making her appear softer, more at peace than Aldric had seen before. Even though she wore the same simple dress, she seemed transformed—her face radiant, as if the weight of her past had finally lightened.

  Amara noticed him, a smile tugging at her lips. “Mr. Aldric,” she called, her voice steady and calm.

  Aldric stopped, his breath still steady from his run. He nodded, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer than he intended. Mira, still laughing, tugged on Amara’s hand, bringing her attention back to the present.

  “Mr. Aldric, I want to expre.... ” Amara began again, but Aldric stopped her before she could finish. “You don’t need to thank me every time you see me.”

  Amara hesitated, then smiled. “I know . We’re settled, though. The man name Erik helped us to get a place. It’s simple, but good. Its just around the corner. Myrin, Loras and Garet will be happy to see you if you come by.”

  He nodded, but shook his head. “I’ll visit another time. I have plans today.”

  “Oh, sorry I didn’t mean to take your time,” she said as her voice was with mild embarrassment.

  “It’s alright,” he said, offering a reassuring smile. “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.”

  Mira looked up at him, her expression serious for her age. "Mr. Hero... if you need help, you can ask me. I’ll come to save you," she said, her voice soft but steady.

  Hero? Aldric thought, momentarily surprised by the title.

  He smiled, touched by her concern. "Of course, little one," he replied.

  Mira’s face brightened, and with a nod, she skipped off to join Amara, her trust in him clear in her innocent confidence.

  A feeling of warmth swept through Aldric as he watched them go. The quiet strength in Amara, the pure hope in Mira, all of it reminded him of why he continued moving forward. Today was different, something more solid, something more assured. The path ahead seemed clearer.

  Aldric went back to the modest, peaceful room where he had been resting after his exercise. For a minute he remained still, absorbing the familiar scene. Even though it was a small space with simple furnishings and wooden walls, it had already started to feel somewhat like home.

  With a sigh, he called out, "System."

  The holographic screen flickered to life, its sterile glow illuminating the room. The familiar interface appeared.

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  *****

  After breakfast, Aldric set out with his goal in mind. He had to locate the library. He needed information if he was to understand his surroundings and get through the difficulties that lay ahead. He planned to arm himself with as much knowledge as he could since knowledge was power

  This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  After some time asking around, he learned the library was located in the central area of Nesharvad. After some wandering, he finally found himself standing before a grand building.

  "Library of Nesharvad" were etched elegantly into the stone above the entrance.

  "It looks quite amazing," Aldric muttered.

  The structure was notable displaying the city's respect for learning. With its large arched windows and elaborate brickwork, this two-story building stood out among the busy streets. The beautiful patterns carved into the oak doors appeared to shimmer subtly in the sunshine.

  Pushing the doors open, Aldric stepped inside. The air was cool and quiet, carrying the faint scent of aged parchment and polished wood. Rows upon rows of bookshelves stretched into the distance, and above him, an intricately painted ceiling depicted constellations and mythical figures.

  His footsteps echoed softly as he ventured further in, scanning the vast space. He had expected to find a stern old scholar running the place, but what he saw made him stop in his tracks.

  Behind a polished wooden desk stood an elf, arranging a stack of books with practiced grace.

  Aldric blinked, momentarily taken aback. He knew that elves lived in Nesharvad, but this was the first time he'd seen one up close.

  She was stunning, even more so than the stories had suggested. Her long, silken hair shimmered like moonlight, and her sharp, elegant features seemed almost otherworldly. High cheekbones, piercing green eyes that glowed faintly in the dim light—she looked like something out of a legend. Her movements were fluid, every gesture precise and deliberate.

  The elf looked up, her gaze meeting his. "Can I help you?" she asked, her voice soft yet melodic, carrying a faint accent he couldn't place.

  Aldric realized he had been staring and cleared his throat. "Yes, I… I was hoping to use the library. I'm looking for information."

  Her expression remained neutral, though her eyes lingered on him for a moment. "The library is open to all," she said, setting the books aside. "What kind of information are you seeking?"

  "Anything about world history ," Aldric said.

  The elf stared at him for a moment before nodding, rist from behind the desk. "Follow me. The histories are on the second floor. "

  As she led him through the library, Aldric couldn't help but steal glances at her. There was something fascinating and intimidating about her presence. It wasn't just her beauty; it was the way she carried herself—confident, almost regal.

  " I am Aldric " he asked, breaking the silence.

  She glanced over her shoulder at him, one eyebrow arching slightly. "Eryndra," she said simply.

  "Eryndra," Aldric repeated, the name feeling unfamiliar on his tongue.

  They reached a spiral staircase, and Eryndra gestured for him to follow. "You'll find what you're looking for up here. If you need assistance, ask. But please respect the books. Some of them are older than your ancestors."

  Aldric nodded, absorbing her words. As he watched her descend the stairs, he made a mental note to learn more about elves.